Former world No. 1 Karolina Pliskova advanced to the third round of the Australian Open, beating American Danielle Collins 7-5, 6-2 today.
Sixth seed Pliskova only lost serve twice in the first set before gaining momentum to see off the challenge of Collins in 49 minutes.
Pliskova lost to the American in straight sets at the Yarra Valley Classic last week.
The Czech’s play was managed and effective, as Collins struggled and only served 49 per cent of first serves in the opening set loss.
Next for Pliskova is Karolina Muchova, who beat Mona Barthel her 6-4 6-1.
“I’m super happy to be through,” Pliskova said post-match.
“Especially to play on this court. I have amazing memories from this court. A couple of years here I’ve played some incredible matches. I don’t think it was amazing tennis today but I’m happy to be through.
“I was a little bit nervous we played last week and it was a really tough match.
“It was a bit tricky in the beginning but I am just happy that I got through.
“I played Muchova two years ago. She’s a newcomer but I think she played incredible last year.
“She had a great season and we practiced two weeks in the quarantine here together so I know her very well. She knows me so it’s going to be a very open and tough match.”
